Science-based Org is CfN’s New Ally in Mangrove Restoration
A small group of scientists and professionals are working with the LGU and community in reviving and protecting mangrove habitats in the Philippines.
Have you heard about the term “blue carbon”?
Coined in 2009, the term refers to the carbon captured and stored by oceanic and coastal ecosystems such as mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and salt marshes. According to an article by NOAA titled “Understanding Blue Carbon”, these ecosystems are powerhouse carbon sinks that play a critical role in mitigating the impacts of global warming because of their immense potential to sequester carbon dioxide more efficiently than terrestrial forests, storing it for centuries in their biomass and underlying sediments.
One of the most thrilling aspects of blue carbon is its dual benefit of promoting environmental health and supporting human communities. By protecting and restoring these ecosystems, we can enhance biodiversity, bolster coastal protection against storms and erosion, and provide sustainable livelihoods for local populations through activities such as eco-tourism and sustainable fishing.
With all the excitement surrounding the concept of Blue Carbon habitats, there is one organization in the Philippines advocating for the restoration and protection of these ecosystems. They are Oceanus Conservation, CfN’s latest community partner!
Oceanus Conservation is a science-based, non-profit environmental organization that has been working with communities on mangrove habitat restoration in Mindanao and La Union since 2021. To date they have successfully planted 15,915 mangrove saplings and monitored 71 hectares of mangrove forests – quite an impressive feat for a small team. Oceanus Conservation credits this success to the initiatives of the local communities and the local governments that they work with. Moving forward with CfN, they shall be working on project expansion in the areas of Northern Luzon and South Negros.
Oceanus Conservation co-founder and Director, Camille Rivera says, “It is truly exciting to work with groups who are aligned with our values. With CfN we are one in our holistic approach to conservation, recognizing the intrinsic link between healthy ecosystems and thriving communities. Combining our strengths, we really hope to make a profound impact on both the environment and the lives of those who depend on it. I look forward to the innovative solutions and meaningful progress of this collaboration. “
“I am excited about our new partnership with Oceanus and the powerful combination of our shared commitment to conservation and community engagement”, says CfN’s Founder and Chair Rhoda Phillips. “Together, we will create lasting positive change for our planet and its communities.”
In the next few months, CfN and Oceanus Conservation will build on blue carbon initiatives. The convergence of ecological preservation, community enablement, and climate action in blue carbon projects represents a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of community-led, nature-based solutions. Stay tuned!